Thomas Daschle: “As we debate the fiscal year 1997 Department of Defense Appropriations bill, I hope my colleagues will take a moment to…”

“As we debate the fiscal year 1997 Department of Defense Appropriations bill, I hope my colleagues will take a moment to reflect on the enormous assistance we receive from the legislative liaison offices for the various branches of the Armed Forces. The men and women who serve in the Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps legislative liaison offices are a valuable link between Members of Congress and the Pentagon. These offices give us with the Pentagon's views on defense bills and specific amendments being considered on the Senate and House floors. They also provide timely answers to our questions and help educate us on a variety of defense issues. Moreover, they are instrumental in notifying us about actions affecting military installations or activities in our States or districts. South Dakota is the proud home to Ellsworth Air Force Base and the B-1B bomber. As I have worked to promote Ellsworth and the B-1 over the years, I have had the opportunity to get to know many of the fine men and women who serve in the Air Force's Legislative Liaison offices. I must say that Maj. Gen. Normand E. Lezy, the Director of the Air Force's Legislative Liaison Office and Brig. Gen. Lansford E. Trapp, Jr., the Deputy Director, and their staff at the Pentagon, have been understanding, responsive and fair.”